Joan Lawson, 89, of Gower, MO passed away October 4, 2018.

She was born on October 30, 1928 to James W. and Elsie Lee (Chaney) Winans in Edgerton, MO. Jo grew up in Gower and graduated from Gower High School. She then attended Platte Business School in St. Joseph.   

On August 2, 1952 she was united in marriage to Gordon “Pop” Lawson. After their marriage they lived in Gower where they made their home. Pop passed away on September 6, 2002. She married John Howard Smith on June 28, 2008. 

She worked as a teller for the Stockyards Bank in St. Joseph and retired from the Farmers Bank of Gower.

Jo was an active member of the Gower Christian Church and served as treasurer. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, playing bridge, reading and most of all spending time with family and friends. 

She was also preceded in death by her parents; her daughter Debra Musser; brothers Pat Winans and Jimmy Winans; and sister Lois Masoner.

Jo is survived by her husband John Howard Smith; son Dan Lawson and wife Debbie; step-daughters Laura Smith and Linda Pettijohn and husband Charlie; granddaughters Carmen Inman and husband Eric, Rhonda Lawson and Rachael Liday; great-granddaughters Erin and Allyson Liday; great-grandson Austin Inman; other relatives and many friends.

Visitation: 6:00-8:00 p.m. Sunday October 7th at Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Gower.

Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m. Monday October 8th at the funeral home.

Burial: Allen Cemetery, Gower.

Donations may be made to the Gower Christian Church.